Lagos: Russian companies are actively negotiating with Nigerian state structures to collaborate on cybersecurity initiatives. This collaboration aims to leverage Russian expertise to combat the increasing threat of cybercrimes in Nigeria, as disclosed by Maxim Petrov, the Russian trade representative in Nigeria, to RIA Novosti.
According to Namibia Press Agency, several cybersecurity projects are currently in development, highlighting Nigeria’s significant risk of cybercrime. Petrov emphasized that Russian experience in this domain is highly sought after, with a Russian cybersecurity market operator currently in discussions with the leadership of a specialized Nigerian state agency.
The Russian trade mission in Nigeria has already facilitated the entry of some Russian companies into the Nigerian market, providing products such as software for mobile providers, office solutions, and file storage. Presently, Nigeria ranks fifth globally in cybercrime, alongside Russia, the US, Ukraine, and China.
Additionally, Nigeria has shown keen interest in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and is open to Russian companies’ proposals in this field. Petrov noted a substantial demand for AI in various sectors, including banking, traffic management, security, and face recognition.
The Russian trade mission is coordinating with Nigerian chambers of commerce, responding to requests from the Nigerian side, and stands ready to support Russian companies with initiatives in AI. In 2020, Nigeria inaugurated The National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, underscoring its commitment to technological advancement.